The start of the hurricane season is about a month away and National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan says this year they will begin issuing official forecast tracks and watches and warnings earlier for tropical systems that have yet to form into a depression.
“We’re going to have the option this year to start issuing those products as much as 72 hours in advance of winds or storms for defecting coastal areas,” Brennan said.
Brennan says it’s in response to unnamed storms rapidly intensifying into a hurricane in a short period of time.
Brennan says NHC has made a lot of progress in the past 5 to 10 years in forecasting rapid intensification.
“Now we’re making much more aggressive intensity forecasts, at least in some situations, and we’ve cut our errors and rapid intensification instances about in half since the early 2010s,” Brennan said.
Brennan says with the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season approaching, these updates aim to improve preparedness and public safety. Brennan urges Louisiana residents to stay informed and prepared.
“This is the time to prepare and know if you live in a storm surge evacuation zone, know what your evacuation plan is going to be, how you’re going to leave, where you’re going to go, how you’re going to help your friends and neighbors who might need help getting ready or evacuating,” Brennan advised.
Comments